Tim Coulson

Tim Coulson, Head of Biology at the University of Oxford and author of "A Universal History of Us," takes listeners on a compelling journey through the origins of life on Earth. He discusses how meteors influenced early life, the role of climate change in human evolution, and the profound impacts of the Great Oxidation Event. Coulson also explores the fascinating transition of life from sea to land and how our ancestors thrived alongside dinosaurs. His reflections highlight the remarkable journey of humanity and encourage curiosity about our existence.

Tim Coulson, an Oxford biologist and author, dives into the complexities of free will, linking it to the evolution of movement and the origins of behavior. He debates whether the universe is deterministic or random, highlighting quantum mechanics as a potential source of true randomness. Coulson explores intriguing concepts in quantum biology, like its role in photosynthesis and consciousness. He passionately argues how randomness influences our choices, while sharing his humanist outlook, emphasizing the unique privilege of scientific exploration.

Tim Coulson, a zoologist at the University of Oxford, delves into the essence of human existence in his illuminating discussion. He traces our origins back to the Big Bang, questioning if our emergence was a cosmic certainty or mere luck. Coulson explores what defines humanity, including consciousness and social living’s evolutionary advantages, while reflecting on our relationship with technology from primitive tools to modern science. He also tackles the age-old debate of determinism versus randomness, pondering if we are merely products of chance or governed by the universe's laws.